The exterior of your house is one of the first things people see when they drive by. It's also one of the easiest ways to make an impression on visitors. But what if it looks like you don't take care of your home, or worse yet, like you never even paint it? That can be a major turn-off for potential buyers and renters alike. So how do you know if you need to hire a professional painting company?

1. You're Out of Touch With Your Paint Color Choices

It's completely understandable to get bored with the same color for years, especially if it happens to be bland. But resisting the urge for a change is no excuse for neglecting to take care of your home. Some colors fade more easily than others, and neglect sets in much sooner. Many homeowners choose to hire professionals because they don't have the time or skill to repaint their exterior.

2. The Paint Has Flaked and Chipped

Even the best paint jobs wear down over time, and harsh winters make it even worse. Large chips or flaking can be deeply frustrating, but it's much better to fix the problem now than wait until there are holes in your siding. Wood rot is a real issue as well, especially if you live somewhere with lots of rain or snow. Along with that, since wood is susceptible to water damage, according to Capitol Improvements, wood trim must be repainted every 4-5 years. Failing to take care of your paintwork can also attract pests like bugs, birds, and squirrels who like to make nests in protected areas.

3. Your Paint is Peeling

Peeling may be the easiest problem to spot, but it's also one of the hardest to fix. Sometimes, the only choice is to repaint the surface entirely. Unfortunately, that can be very expensive and time-consuming, since it's often easier to replace the siding than repair it.

4. Your Home Doesn't Match Your Neighborhood

A creaky old house might be charming in a certain setting, but it won't attract buyers who want a little more luxury. The exterior is the first thing that potential homebuyers notice, and older paint jobs can make your property look outdated or neglected. If you don't want your home to look run down, hire a professional exterior painting company.

5. You're Planning to Sell Your Home Soon

Even if you don't plan to sell your property anytime soon, a new paint job can make a huge difference to buyers looking for an investment property. A little extra time and money now could end up saving you a major headache later.

Don't underestimate the impact of paint on home value and curb appeal, as that can make or break the sale. It's very important to take care of your exterior siding to avoid attracting pests and reducing its resale value. You may need professional help if you've let some problems get out of control.